[A.Hoppel]

I am currently somewhere between 5 weeks - 9 weeks pregnant. ( I won't know for sure how far along until my Dr appt next week.) A few days ago someone poisoned my dog. Our dogs are like family to us and this event was very tramatic. She went into continuous seizures and died right before we got her to the hospital. The harder I tried to remain calm the more it seemed to stress me out. I'm super worried now about miscarriage. This can't be helpful either. I've been really stressed for 3 days now, with the first two being the worst. What is the chances that this could cause me to miscarry? Are there any signs I could look for? No bleeding, but I don't know that you will for sure bleed there is miscarriage. Any advice?

[DoulaLC]

I am so very sorry to hear what happened. Hopefully you will be able to find who did it and have some justice.

Stress will effect people differently, whether pregnant or not. There is no definitive conclusion of miscarriage being caused by stress, but that is not to say that it can't be a possibility in some situations. Generally speaking, stress won't be a likely factor in miscarriage. That you are now starting to experience a lower stress level is a good sign.

Most often bleeding and cramping will be seen with a miscarriage. Some women will have some spotting or bleeding, and even some slight cramping,in early pregnancy however. The major difference is the amount of bleeding and the intensity of cramping.

Certainly do what you can to ease your stress. I know it must be difficult given the situation. Talk to family and friends if that helps. Pamper yourself if possible, perhaps a pregnancy massage for example.

Time will ease your pain... I wish you well.

[A.Hoppel]

Thank you very much for your answer. I will try and just relax the next few days and visit with family.